Following the release of Episode 7, “Course Correction,” the acclaimed actor shares his insights.
The following story and interview contains spoilers from Episode 7 "Course Correction"
Dexter: Resurrection has been known from the start for pulling in major Hollywood talent — both as guest stars and series regulars. Among the most exciting additions in Season 1 was David Dastmalchian, an actor who, in recent years, has become a standout for his chilling portrayals of villains on both the big and small screen.
Earlier this year, Dastmalchian accepted the offer to join the new chapter of the Dexter saga, turning down another film project to take on a role that would ultimately pay off in a big way. Though he appeared in only three episodes, his character arc quickly became one of the most talked-about elements of the season.
The actor was given the rare challenge of portraying not one, but two characters — identical twin serial killers known as the Gareths, dubbed “The Gemini Killer(s).” It was a first for the franchise, and it meant Dastmalchian had the unusual honor of being killed by Dexter twice.
A Unique Dexter Death — Twice Over
In a conversation with Deadline’s Rosy Cordero, Dastmalchian shared his excitement about the creative opportunity. He explained that playing the Gareths allowed him to deliver two distinct performances and two separate showdowns with Dexter. Unlike other iconic villains in the series, neither of his deaths followed the traditional “plastic wrap table” ritual. Each confrontation felt different, fresh, and — in his words — unlike anything Dexter had done before.
As filming went on, he recalled telling showrunners Clyde Phillips and Scott Reynolds that it felt groundbreaking. They agreed, assuring him this was new territory for the show and that they were thrilled by how it unfolded. For Dastmalchian, it was an honor to carve out such a unique corner of the Dexter legacy.
The Question of the Twins on Screen Together
Fans may wonder whether the Gareths could have appeared in the same frame. Dastmalchian admitted that the production considered it but ultimately decided against it. He felt the payoff was stronger in the now-infamous helicopter scene, when Dexter faces Leon Prater’s crew and the unexpected appearance of one Gareth shifts the entire dynamic.
Still, the actor hinted that there may be room for the Gareths — or their memories — to return. With Dexter: Resurrection exploring dream sequences and visions from the past, he teased the possibility that Dexter could one day be haunted by the ghosts of the twins.
Building Two Different Monsters
What makes Dastmalchian’s performance stand out is the subtle detail he poured into distinguishing each Gareth. He studied everything from which hand they favored to how they walked, how they reacted under pressure, and even their small, unconscious gestures.
He wanted viewers to pick up on these differences without the portrayals feeling exaggerated. To him, the craft was in creating two men who were similar yet undeniably unique. Every nervous tic, facial expression, or shift in body language became a way to separate one brother from the other.
On Working With Michael C. Hall
He recalled the many hours spent not just filming, but also waiting together between takes, during which they connected as artists. Watching Hall work reminded him of collaborating with other powerhouse actors like Alexander Skarsgård. What impressed him most was Hall’s ability to treat every take as if it were happening for the very first time, bringing a sense of discovery and rawness that elevated every scene.
A Darkly Poetic Farewell
When asked how he might eulogize the Gareths, Dastmalchian offered a tongue-in-cheek but strangely poignant epitaph: misunderstood artists who forged a legendary legacy, topping the FBI’s Most Wanted list while somehow still holding a place “in your heart.”
The Gareths may be gone, but their short-lived reign has already earned a place among the most unforgettable villains in the Dexter universe. And if Dastmalchian’s words are any indication, this may not be the last time fans see the shadow of his chilling characters haunting Dexter Morgan.